2.5.3 Student Book © 2004 Propane Education & Research CouncilPage 1 2.5.3 Verifying Proper ASME Tank Condition Prior to Loading For the safe and efficient

2.5.3 Student Book © 2004 Propane Education & Research Council Page 1

2.5.3Verifying Proper ASME Tank Condition Prior to Loading

For the safe and efficient operation of the ASME tank-setting trailer, propane personnel should understand the basic components, maintenance, and operation.

In this module you will learn to:

(1) Identify DOT regulations pertaining to transporting ASME tanks

(2) Verify ASME tank condition

2.5.? Student Book © 2004 Propane Education & Research Council Page 1

DOT Regulations for Transporting ASME Tanks

49 CFR § 172.315 (j): Storage containers for liquefied petroleum gas for permanent installation on consumer premises may be shipped by private motor carrier only under the following conditions:

1) Each container is constructed in compliance with the requirements of the ASME Code and must be marked to indicate compliance [data plate or data specification stamping] in the manner specified by the respective Code.

2) Each container is equipped with safety devices in compliance with the requirements as specified in NFPA Pamphlet No. 58

3) The containers shall be so braced or otherwise secured on the vehicle as to prevent relative motion while in transit. Valves or other fittings shall be adequately protected against injury during transportation.


DOT Regulations for Transporting ASME Tanks

49 CFR § 172.315 (j): Storage containers for liquefied petroleum gas for permanent installation on consumer premises may be shipped by private motor carrier only under the following conditions:

4) Except as provided in paragraph (5), containers shall not be shipped when charged with liquefied petroleum gas to more than 5 percent of their water capacity.

5) Storage containers of less than 1,042 pounds water capacity (125 gallons) may be shipped when charged with liquefied petroleum gas in compliance with DOT filling density.


Verifying ASME Tank Condition

Be sure that you read, understand, and apply any company policies and procedures for maintaining ASME tanks and other containers used for customer propane storage.

Particular attention should be given to company-specific standards that stipulate requirements for condition of container coating, customer information decals, sealing of container valves when not in service, and inspection of container valves, fittings, regulators, and other container appurtenances.



Check for Leaks

Figure 1. Checking for Leaks on AG/UG Tank



Verify that any tank over 125 gallons water capacity contains 5% or less propane in liquid form.

Figure 2. Liquid Level Must Be 5% or Less If Tank Is Larger Than 125 Gallons



Check the condition of the tank coating.

Figure 3a. Underground Tank Coating

Figure 3b. Aboveground Tank Coating



Check the condition of each tank valve and fitting.

Check to ensure that weather caps are in place on filler valves and relief valves, the vapor equalizing valve. Verify that the metal plug is in place and sealed on the liquid withdrawal valve.

If the tank is a new tank and not vacuum-sealed by the manufacturer, be sure that the container is properly purged of air before it is transported to the customer location. Older tanks that have been open to the atmosphere must be purged as well.




Figure 4a. Relief Valve

Figure 4b. Filler Valve




Figure 4c. Multi-Valve

Figure 4d. Liquid Withdrawal Valve



Verify that the tank is properly marked and labeled.

Figure 5. Underground Tank Data Plate



Verify that the tank is properly marked and labeled. – If the tank contains propane, it must have proper shipping labels or placards.

Figure 6. 4 x 4Flammable Gas Shipping Label

3.9 incheseach side

solid lineinner border0.2 to 0.25 in .from ed eg

h a z a r d c l a s s0 . 2 5 t o 0 . 5 i n .h i g h

h a z a r d0 . 3 i n .h i g h



After the condition of the ASME tank has been determined to be satisfactory, the tank and any required installation materials should be readied for loading. Secure installation items such as masonry foundation blocks on the delivery vehicle; they are considered cargo that must be secured as any other cargo transported under DOT regulations.

Figure 7. ASME Tank Foundation Blocks


Transporting an ASME Tank from Customer Location

Verify that any tank over 125 gallons water capacity contains 5% or less propane in liquid form. If more than 5% liquid is present, the excess liquid must be evacuated before the tank can be transported on public roadways.

Figure 8. Evacuating an ASME Tank Using A Portable Compressor


Transporting an ASME Tank from Customer Location

If the tank is leak-free, has the proper liquid level, and is properly marked and labeled, it can be loaded for return to the bulk plant.

2.5.? Student Book © 2004 Propane Education & Research Council Pages 7 & 8

Time to See If You Got the Key Points of This Module…

• Complete the Review on page 7.

• See if you are ready for the Certification Exam by checking off the performance criteria on page 8.

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2.5.3 Student Book © 2004 Propane Education & Research CouncilPage 1 2.5.3 Verifying Proper ASME Tank Condition Prior to Loading For the safe and efficient